local heroes network
Because knowing who to trust shouldn’t be a guessing game.
When you need a decorator, a gardener, or a dog sitter, you want someone who actually comes recommended. And if you’re the one doing brilliant work but struggling to get seen, you deserve a place where locals can find you.
HERO SPOTLIGHT
Lulu Clarke - Clarke Studios
Founded by Lulu Clarke, Clarke Studios is a rural-focused creative consultancy supporting small, independent businesses across West Berkshire and the surrounding countryside. With over a decade of experience spanning brand strategy, design, marketing, and events, Lulu works with cafés, pubs, shops, makers, and local founders who want to grow sustainably without losing their character. Her studio is known for thoughtful brand identities, clear positioning, and a strong belief that successful businesses are built around people, place, and community — not trends.
Much of Clarke Studios’ work happens quietly behind the scenes at The George, where branding, events, menus, and community initiatives are developed with a long-term view. The Local Heroes Network grew out of this same ethos: creating a practical, trusted space where local people can find and support one another.
Clarke Studios exists to make small businesses feel seen, supported, and confident in who they are — and to help the places we love continue to thrive.
FAQS
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The Local Heroes Network is a curated directory of trusted local people, businesses, and community groups connected to The George.
It exists to make it easy to find the people who quietly keep our area running — from trades and services to creatives, clubs, and independents — all in one place.
Every name listed here is either personally known, locally recommended, or part of the wider community around the pub. No algorithms, no ads — just real people, doing good work, locally.
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Use the directory to find local recommendations when you need them.
Whether you’re looking for a builder, a dog walker, a coffee club, a yoga class, or something a bit more niche, this is a good place to start.
Each listing includes a short description and direct contact details, so you can reach out easily and support local businesses and groups directly.
We’ll also be spotlighting one Local Hero each month — sharing their story and the work they do — so there’s always something new to discover.
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Yes — if you’re genuinely local and part of the community.
The Local Heroes Network is curated rather than open-access, to keep it useful and relevant. If you run a local business, service, or community group and would like to be included, you can apply using the form below.
We review submissions regularly and select features based on locality, quality, and community connection — not size or polish.